2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1973 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Nissan Laurel (98 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 206 kg more than 1973 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1973 Nissan Laurel is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1973 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
